Will they know you are Christian by your Love? Does God challenge you during your Christian walk?
Just the other day, a man, who appeared to be in his mid-60’s, stopped by the parsonage, rang the doorbell (which doesn’t ring) and waited for the door to be opened. Once I opened the door, the gentleman gave me his name, I gave him my name and he immediately began to explain why he had made a visit.
He began by saying, “ Hey, aren’t you the new pastor at the church just up the street?” I replied, “Yes, I am the new pastor at Mathews Chapel UMC.”
The gentleman went on to ask me If I had any work that he might do such as yard work, painting, landscaping, mowing, roofing, etc. I explained to the gentleman that I did not have any work for him to do but, I would keep him in both my thoughts and my prayers.
Immediately, the Holy Spirit began to challenge me and I was reminded of James 2:15-17 NIV:
“Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed’, but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
Just then, I was called to action and asked the gentleman if some cash might help him until he finds work. When I checked my wallet, all I had was $8. I remembered, during one of my “wilderness seasons” of life, that any amount, when you have nothing is appreciative. I also asked the gentleman to check back with me next week regarding work.
“Thoughts and Prayers” are nice and all, but real Christian work is “ACTION”! Remember, the next time you tell someone your “thoughts and prayers are with them”, make sure you stop and think of the ways you might be called to action during someone else’s crises.
When we bless others, we in turn, are blessed, but above all, we bless God! Remember, as Christians, we represent God to the best of our abilities……
Will they know you are Christian by your Love?
If any of you have light-duty work for the gentleman, should he return next week, please let me know!
Peace and Blessings!
Pastor Marcus